Transfer Speculation
As per one of the latest reports by The Express, Leeds United are close to signing Pascal Struijk from Ajax. His contract expires at the end of the season but he is a highly rated youngster with lots of admirers. The report states that Struijk travelled to England a couple of days back to finalise his move to the Elland Road and it seems that it is only a matter of time now before the deal becomes official.
What Has He Got?
Struijk is a tall defender with a well-built physique and considering his age, he has shown immense maturity and calmness at the back. The centre-back has great technical abilities and his height gives him an added edge during set-pieces, both offensively and defensively. He has been used as a striker at times in his youth career and it is clear from his confidence in the opposition penalty area.
Leeds United’s Current Scenario
The Whites are currently suffering a meltdown in the Championship as they have managed to collect merely a solitary point from their last 4 league outings. They have slipped in the race for promotion to the Premier League and need a mini-resurrection. They do need to add some freshness to their arsenal before the transfer window shuts down.
Another Young Gun?
When the deal gets finalised, Struijk will link up with Leeds United’s Under-23 side which would enable him to brush himself further. The Peacocks are heavily investing in their youth setup, having signed the likes of Aapo Halme, Sam Dalby, Oliver Sarkic and Kamil Miazek earlier this month and Struijk seems to be the next in line.
From what has been seen since Andrea Radrizzani’s takeover, Leeds United are focussing on youngsters and are willing to ensure that the future of the club is a sound one. They have looked far and wide to infuse blossoming starlets in their arsenal and in their endeavours, Struijk would be a handy addition for them owing to his capabilities.
More Signings Needed?
It is always appealing to see a club eyeing young talents but given that Thomas Christiansen’s outfit need to make a serious push for promotion in the coming months, they need players with proven pedigree who are already acclimatised to English football. Although signing the 18-year-old seems encouraging, there are still some areas which need to be addressed by Leeds United to better their credentials.